The Complete Guide To Computer Science in Malaysia

Computer scientists solve complex issues, including forecasting natural disasters, tracking virus outbreak trends, enhancing our healthcare system, and expanding educational opportunities.
Computer Science in Malaysia
Country

Malaysia

Duration

3 Years

Fees

$7,500 +

Field

Computer Science

Program Overview 

We use computers in almost everything we do. Computing fosters creativity in the engineering, commercial, entertainment, educational, and scientific fields and offers answers to various complex, complicated challenges. It is a vast area that covers everything from how effectively software is built to how the algorithms that make up software interact with hardware.

For today’s developments, the history of computer science provides a crucial context. We could put a human on the moon, create the internet, and put a portable computer in the hands of six billion people because of computer science. George Forsythe coined the phrase ‘computer science’ in 1961. Forsythe characterised the discipline as including computer systems design, data processing, numerical analysis, and programming theory. The first university computer science department was created just one year later, and Forsythe later founded Stanford’s Computer science department. The history of computers and computer science provides an important context for today’s computer scientists.

Gadgets operate in the background in our homes and communities, even when we believe we have ‘unplugged’ from society. Computer scientists solve complex issues, including forecasting natural disasters, tracking virus outbreak trends, enhancing our healthcare system, and expanding educational opportunities. For instance, internet education was previously mocked, but today anybody can study nearly anything from free learning resources to YouTube lessons.

The BSc degrees in computer science are created to provide you with a solid foundation in computer science and a particular understanding of subjects like data science, artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and web development. The training incorporates academic and industrial case studies to assist you in applying your knowledge to actual challenges. Throughout the curriculum, you’ll create and complete several projects to refine your technical skills and problem-solving talents.

  • Software 1: Foundations of Programming for Computer Science.
  • Theory 1: Mathematical Foundations of Computer Science.
  • HCI1: Human-Computer Interaction.
  • Software 2: Object-Oriented Data Structures and Algorithms.
  • Systems and Devices 1: Introduction to Computer Architectures.
  • Theory 2: Formal Languages and Automata.

Computer scientists use technology to address issues and plan for the future. Their primary focus is verifying models of human-computer interaction with people or machines to enhance efficiencies where appropriate. They also construct programs that generate applications.

Most universities’ entry requirements for degrees in computer science emphasise mathematics. However, some also ask for a physics background. A background in psychology or sociology might add depth to your studies since it will provide insight into how people think and process information. This article will give you a run-through of all the reasons to study computer science and attain a career surrounding it.

Why Study This Program

Great Employment Opportunities

All industries require computer science graduates, and determining the number of career opportunities a computer science student may take up would be impossible. While studying computer science in Malaysia, you would come across the commercial uses of computers. You receive first-hand experience using the information learned to support organisations during your employment, equipping you for future success.

Even if there are countless employment opportunities for computer science graduates, you need specific abilities to secure lucrative positions. It will help if you stay current with new developments in your subject of study and the sector you want to work in, as computer science in Malaysia is a constantly growing field. Most well-paying professions demand the most current knowledge and abilities in particular disciplines, without which you won’t be the best candidate.

Developing Industry

Every industry uses computer science, as we have already mentioned. Professionals are required in significant numbers in all of these sectors. Students studying computer science in Malaysia are expected to design, create, and apply problem-solving software to the hardware employed in the real world in every sphere of people’s life and industry. Those who enter this subject of study have access to many expanding marketplaces.

Jobs for computer science graduates can be found in the gaming sector, app creation, healthcare, and even security analysis. In addition, those having a Master’s in computer science in Malaysia will find it thrilling to have a range of possibilities accessible as the number of opportunities in various fields grows. Computer science may benefit you with fantastic work prospects, problem-solving abilities, and the ability to code and programme nearly anything you desire, thanks to the employment chances accessible and the distinctive advantages of enhancing your way of life.

Various Specialisations

You’ll have plenty of options because computer science in Malaysia is so broad. This lessens competition in the job market for computer science specialists since many individuals have different skill sets. This is accessible in post-graduate studies, not just at your college or institution. A computer science graduate can choose from various specialised courses and take them online or at a specialised university.

The good news is that while these classes may seem overwhelming to those who are not tech-savvy, those who have studied computer science will always find it simpler to comprehend these emerging professions. Due to its use in virtually all facets of human activity, computer science in Malaysia is a branch of science that is expanding quickly. You only need to watch for fresh discoveries and any potential employment opportunities. Many computer science students enrol in specialised courses to fulfil the prerequisites for a high-paying job offer they are considering applying for.

Unique Applications

It isn’t easy to imagine a field of human activity in which computer science in Malaysia is not widely used. A computer science degree will equip you for various later-in-life endeavours, including founding and managing a business. You may major in computer science and work in the poultry industry, agricultural farming, education administration, or anything else.

Every firm uses data occasionally. A computer science degree lets you recognise places where specific applications may greatly simplify and accelerate your job. Some of those programmes can even be ones you create yourself or are free. The key takeaway is that you can probably use your computer skills to run whatever organisation or sector you later find yourself in and maybe even get a competitive edge over those who don’t and must outsource.

A Diverse Department

Computing’s phenomenal progress over the last few decades proves the field’s unpredictability. With the possibility of advancement, it is understandable that so many individuals would like to take advantage of it. The least you want when you decide to study a topic is to feel confident about your future. Graduates in computer science in Malaysia typically work in software engineering and programming. But, graduates can also anticipate job offers in other fields as computing’s impact spreads.

Both computers and the people around them are universal. One of the most international courses to take, computer science courses attract students, professors, and professionals worldwide. When you study abroad, you will be exposed to many cultures, attend a famous international university, and get exceptional exposure to issues in the real world.

Why Study In Malaysia

Autonomy

You’ll be equipped to work as a freelancer once you’ve learned to code and finished your degree in computer science in Malaysia. This implies that you may market your abilities to others. You may use your days to programme websites and mobile applications. Most significantly, you can work for yourself. Also, you might look for possibilities to work as a freelancer for well-known businesses, which can be a promising career path.

Several businesses employ many freelancers as their team members since outsourcing technical computer operations to freelancers is more economical. Also, you may have your own website where you can promote freelancing IT-related services like designing websites, developing apps and software, and many others.

Become Confident

Watching your code fail and trying to repair it through experimentation is a thrilling sensation. Whenever you view the final website or app, you’ll experience tremendous pride in your work, increasing your confidence significantly. The best thing is that you can do this while working for others and making substantial money.

Not everyone can stand out in a crowd, thanks to their career. Still, thanks to computer science in Malaysia, you will get the opportunity to be confident while being the centre of attention amongst many other professionals in the field.

Affordable Course Fees

The fee required to study computer science in Malaysia is comparatively less than that required in many other countries, such as the USA, the UK, Australia, and Canada, to name just a few. With computer science degree expenses shooting up worldwide, Malaysia comes across as a reliable option to receive a high-quality education at an affordable cost.

Globally Recognised Degrees

Computer science degrees from Malaysian universities enjoy global recognition. Studying computer science in Malaysia allows students to pursue the program in Malaysia and then move anywhere globally. Several students continue their master’s and specialisation in Malaysia or transfer to other countries to pursue different pathways.

International Education Standard

The standard of computer science programs in Malaysia meets international standards. This ensures exceptional education for students who enrol in this course. The course curriculum is rigorously developed, keeping in line with international benchmarks to ensure students learn the latest developments in computer science. 

Excellent Campus Facilities and Infrastructure 

Malaysia offers excellent campus facilities, modern infrastructure, and innovative teaching aids for studying computer science in Malaysia. The schools in Malaysia offer a great learning atmosphere. Several leading universities have developed in-house labs and testing facilities dedicated to helping students learn with hands-on experience, operate with state-of-the-art machinery, and stay up to date with the latest innovations.

Career Prospects

A computer scientist is a person who employs in-depth technical knowledge to design software, utilise data, and analyse trends to provide organisations with answers. Advanced mathematics, physics, and computer languages are all ideas that these technical professionals must comprehend. Computer scientists study theoretical concepts, do experiments, and use their expertise to advance current technology and provide more practical applications. They may work for universities, research organisations, or commercial businesses.

Computer scientists are in charge of a company’s whole IT department. In addition to choosing and installing hardware and software, they manage the company’s internal computer network and develop and optimise software solutions.

Here are some of the critical roles and responsibilities that a computer scientist must have:

  • The development or revision of computer algorithms.
  • Writing new codes or programming languages.
  • Assessing new hardware or computer systems.
  • Creating models or theories to address computer-related issues.
  • Testing new hypotheses through research experiments.
  • Enhancing computer programmes or systems by creating new software.
  • Computer hardware and software optimisation to boost performance.
  • Using research and models to get pertinent information.
  • Creating valuable insights and solutions with data.
  • Establishing databases to house data for organisations.

By obtaining a degree, participating in technology-related boot camps, and gaining work experience, computer engineers can develop the complex skills necessary for the position. A solid understanding of programming languages, secure coding, and software and hardware technologies is advantageous for computer engineers.

Here are some skills required to become an excellent computer science specialist:

  • Knowledge about computers.
  • Working knowledge of hardware elements.
  • Understanding of coding languages like Python and Java.
  • Basic understanding of coding.
  • Understanding of the foundations of software development, debugging, and design.
  • Understanding of best practices for computer engineering.
  • Strong aptitude in maths.
  • Fundamental knowledge of integrated system administration.
  • Being familiar with content management systems.
  • Powerful analytical abilities.

Software Developer

Software developers are responsible for designing, creating, and maintaining computer programs and applications that enable businesses and individuals to perform specific tasks efficiently. This position is ideal if you like developing code, finding solutions to issues, and bringing digital programs and apps to life.

Database Administrator

An organisation’s data is stored, organised, and managed by database administrators using specialised software. Secure information like payroll information, shipment history, or financial data may be included in this. A database administrator’s responsibility is to ensure that the appropriate individuals have access to the data as needed and that it is secure from external threats.

Full Stack Developer

Front-end and back-end development are skills that full-stack developers have. They frequently work with databases and APIs and are typically skilled in various modern technologies and languages, including Java, Python, HTML, and CSS. You can specialise in front-end or back-end programming as a full-stack developer. Many smaller businesses and startups require the skill set of a full-stack developer.

Information Security Specialist

Information security specialists protect their organisation’s IT systems against hacker assaults and other security flaws. They carry out routine security checks and utilise the data they gather to recommend new software, protocols, or security measures to IT professionals.

Security Engineer

Anybody interested in a career in cyber security should consider this one. Your duties would be to create and apply various technologies to safeguard your business’s networks, computers, and digital data.

Computer Programmer

Computer programmers use customers’ feedback to design programmes and apps tailored to their demands. Computer programmers and software developers, who also utilise programming to construct applications, have some overlap. Programmers for computers often have a solid grasp of the various programming languages and excellent problem-solving abilities.

Cloud Engineer

A cloud engineer is responsible for upgrading and keeping up with cloud properties. They have a variety of duties, but some include using technologies like TerraForm to construct and manage networks and infrastructure.

System Analyst

A systems analyst’s job is to evaluate an organisation’s IT infrastructure and offer suggestions for software and hardware modifications to increase productivity and security. Senior systems analysts may require strong interpersonal skills since they may interact with supervisors and other team members.

Product Management

One of the primary responsibilities of product managers responsible for a product’s experience is collaborating cross-functionally with developers, marketers, and designers to build features. Many software engineers move into product management because it may frequently be helpful to have a basic grasp of computer science to identify what software code is required to implement those features.

Data Scientist

A data scientist’s job is to use technology to organise, investigate, and analyse enormous amounts of data. They achieve this by developing software that can analyse and find patterns in data. They frequently are interested in discovering novel approaches to tackling issues and have good analytical and quantitative abilities.

Program Duration

The duration to study computer science in Malaysia is three years for the bachelor’s program. English is the medium of instruction followed in schools across all major international private universities. 

The first year will have a number of common subjects between different specialisations. As students progress to years two and three, their modules and subjects will become more specialised as per their field of choice. 

Students can sometimes switch from one specialisation to another, but it will require approval from the University faculty and the relevant authorities in Malaysia.

Students who want to opt for program transfers to another University will usually need to prepare the transfer paperwork and start processing from their second year onwards to ensure all the paperwork and approvals are in place so the program transfer can be done.

Entry Requirements

The Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) sets the entry requirements and guidelines for university admissions in Malaysia, which all universities must adhere to. All prospective international students must meet the minimum entry requirements, as the Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE) takes these standards into account during the application acceptance and processing phases.

The admission requirements to study computer science in Malaysia for international students may vary from one university to another. However, the basic entry requirements are the same for most universities. 

Usually, there are two pathways to entering a degree program in Malaysia:

  • First, students can join a foundation program after completing their secondary schooling, O levels, or equivalent qualifications. After completing the foundation in the information technology/computing program, they can continue to the bachelor’s degree as per their choice.
  • Second, students who have completed their higher secondary school or A levels or equivalent will be able to join the bachelor’s degree programme directly into year one. 

If a student fails to meet the entry requirements for a bachelor’s degree programme, the faculty may offer different pathways into the degree programme, for example, through a foundation or a diploma programme. 

Universities may raise the entry requirements to ensure incoming students are academically prepared for the rigours of their programmes. So, prospective international students should consult with an admission advisor to determine the precise entry criteria for their chosen programme and their preferred university.

General Entry Requirements For Bachelor’s Degree

A Levels or Equivalent:

  • 2 Passes in A-Level in Science stream with a Pass in Mathematics and one Science or ICT subject. Or 
  • 2 Passes in A-Level with a Credit in Additional Mathematics at IGCSE/O-Level or equivalent. Or 
  • 2 Passes in A-Level with a Credit in Mathematics and Science or ICT subjects at O-Level/IGCSE or equivalent. Candidates need to do a Prerequisite module in Further Mathematics or equivalent in the first semester of the Degree Programme.

Foundation

  • Passed the relevant Foundation programme (minimum CGPA of 2.0)

English Language

International students who wish to study computer science in Malaysia will need to also provide proof of their English language proficiency with IELTS or TOEFL exams. Students who have studied the British or American curriculum are generally exempted from the English proficiency requirements since the medium of instruction for that curriculum is in English by default. 

Students who have studied other curriculums where the medium of instruction is also English will usually need to provide a supporting letter from the school stating that the instruction language for their schooling has been English. With that letter, English language requirements are proven to have been completed.

Fees & Cost

Students sometimes only look at the tuition fee during the comparison. However, depending on how forthright and clearly the fee guidelines from the university are, the extra fees can be a hefty amount that could be a surprise. So students are advised to correctly add all the fees and decide which university fits their budget requirements to study computer science in Malaysia. 

Various factors will contribute to the overall cost structure, such as:

  • Tuition fees
  • Accommodation fees
  • Admission fee
  • Registration and Visa fees and
  • Other one-time fees.

These fees vary from university to university and can depend on varying factors. The quality, infrastructure, facilities and teacher-to-student ratio will also determine how much a university charges.

You must find the right balance between quality and cost to get the best education possible. The average cost to study computer science in Malaysia is between RM30,000 to RM40,000 per year, depending on the University.

For reference, that’s around USD $7,500 to $10,000 per year for a 3-year computer science degree program at the current exchange rate.

Accommodation

Accommodation cost is going to be another recurring fee for international students. Generally, students have two options: they can either stay at the on-campus accommodation provided by the university or at private accommodation. The prices will differ according to which university and area you choose.

Generally, campus accommodations at major universities start at around US$150 per month and can go up to $400 per month. The pricing for on-campus accommodation is determined by the size of the room, whether a student will be sharing the room or will be staying alone, or if the student is taking a master room which generally comes with an attached bathroom or decides to stay at a sharing room with shared bathroom.

Some universities also offer cooking facilities and on-campus accommodation, which are shared facilities which will also be factored into the accommodation costs. Utility costs are generally an add-on fee.

While choosing the university, you can check with your admissions advisor on the options available for accommodation and how much they will cost so that you have an idea of how much of a monthly budget you will require as a student.

Admission Procedure

Researching, applying and managing overseas admissions is a tedious, time-consuming and often confusing process. Incorrect application submissions can lead to lengthy processing, delayed approvals, or rejections. You can visit education, exhibitions and fairs to collect information. However, that is not enough. You can only collect cursory information at these places. However, your admission processing will usually take much longer. During that time, you will need consistent and dedicated support to ensure your application is in the right experienced hands.

This is where we help.

Edmates helps international students from around the world with complete admissions processing. Our integrated one-stop centre helps international students with everything. We help you find future-driven programs that match your abilities and interests in leading universities.

We handle the entire process from the beginning until you have joined the university. Our international support system will manage everything for you, absolutely free.

Each student is assigned with a dedicated admission advisor who will manage the complete admission process and also guide the student throughout the admissions process. The advisor will also liaise with the university admissions department to ensure clear communications and faster processing.

You can speak with your assigned advisor anytime by booking a free call online through the website. You will also receive regular updates regarding your application via emails, SMS and WhatsApp.

To learn about each step of the admission process, you can read our complete guide to start applying for your higher education the right way.

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